This design from Claire Shaeffer’s Custom Couture collection for Vogue Patterns has subtle couture touches. The simple silhouette, combined with fine details, make it a stunning choice. It is an above-the-knee, fit-and-flare dress with a V-neckline, shoulder pleats, short sleeves, vertical tucks at the waistline, a waist stay, lingerie guards, and a center-back zipper. The most striking feature is the 37 tucks that shape the waistline. Inside the dress, additional shaping and support are provided by a 4-1⁄2-inch-wide grosgrain ribbon waist stay, shaped with 10 darts and closed with hooks and eyes. The dress is not difficult to sew, but it requires time and patience. Marking and sewing each tuck precisely is critical for a proper fit. The instructions are well-illustrated, concise, and peppered with helpful hints from Claire. Our tester used a polyester crepe for the muslin, which worked up beautifully. She envisions gorgeous versions of this dress made from wool crepe, soft linen, or silk dupioni, and suggests sticking with light-to-medium-toned solid colors, as opposed to prints or dark fabrics, so as not to hide the tucks. This is a perfect design to wear to a wedding or on an evening out.

(Sized Misses’ 8–24 for busts 31.5–46 in. and hips 33.5–48 in.)

Style Tip: For a formal evening look, extend the skirt to floor length and add touches of hand beading.

-Tested by Sandi Barrett, Marlborough, Massachusetts

Have you made this pattern? If so, be sure to share pictures in our Readers Closet gallery.

Style Tip: For a formal evening look, extend the skirt to floor length and add touches of hand beading.

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